MOMBASA, Kenya – Kenya’s new security initiative, Jukwaa la Usalama, is taking a proactive approach to combat some of the nation’s most pressing challenges, particularly youth unemployment and radicalization.
Launched on April 8, 2025, in the coastal city of Mombasa, the initiative provides a platform for citizens and government officials to engage in direct, structured dialogue.
Through these forums, the government aims to address the root causes of insecurity and foster a safer, more inclusive society.
The initiative, spearheaded by the Ministry of Interior and National Administration, is designed to strengthen public trust by prioritizing community engagement in security matters.
This year, the Pwani Edition of the forum marked the start of what will be a nationwide effort to involve local communities in shaping national security policies.
The forum’s discussions touched on a range of issues, but key concerns raised by participants centered on the rising threat of youth radicalization and the lack of meaningful employment opportunities for young people.
One of the primary drivers of radicalization, as highlighted by youth leaders during the forum, is the vulnerability caused by unemployment.
Young people in Kenya are increasingly susceptible to extremist ideologies, often due to socioeconomic pressures and the lack of opportunities for personal and professional growth.
The forum underscored the need for comprehensive strategies to tackle these issues, including mentorship programs, skills development, and greater access to education and job opportunities.
In response, the government has committed to expanding its Youth Safety and Innovation Hubs, which will focus on digital literacy training, creative industry support, and job creation initiatives.
These hubs aim to provide young people with the tools to succeed in the digital economy and contribute positively to their communities, while also offering an alternative to the dangers of radicalization.
Additionally, the forum addressed the urgent need for community-based solutions to counter violent extremism.
Stakeholders, including religious leaders and local educators, called for stronger collaborations between the government, communities, and religious institutions to create prevention programs that combine security awareness with education and employment opportunities.
This approach aligns with the broader goals of Jukwaa la Usalama, which emphasizes the role of local actors in shaping the security landscape.
As the initiative moves forward, it is evident that Jukwaa la Usalama’s success hinges on its ability to incorporate local knowledge and experiences into policy-making.
The forum’s approach to tackling youth unemployment and radicalization emphasizes the importance of early intervention and local ownership of security challenges.
By providing a space for community members to voice their concerns and propose solutions, the government is working to create a security system that is more inclusive, transparent, and responsive to the needs of the people.
In addition to addressing youth issues, the forum also focused on strengthening community policing and improving coordination between government agencies.
Local leaders expressed concerns about inadequate security infrastructure and the slow response times to emerging threats.
These concerns will be taken into account as the government rolls out further forums in other regions, aiming to refine security strategies and ensure that they align with the realities of local communities.
The rollout of Jukwaa la Usalama represents a significant shift in Kenya’s approach to security, one that prioritizes the voices of ordinary citizens in shaping the future of national safety.
By addressing the underlying issues of youth unemployment and radicalization, the initiative seeks not only to improve security but to empower communities to take an active role in fostering peace and stability in their regions.
Through continuous engagement and collaboration, Jukwaa la Usalama is laying the groundwork for a more secure, inclusive, and prosperous Kenya.
